01

Two workroom traditions

Flou workrooms for soft dressmaking and tailleur workrooms for suits and coats use different skills. Repeated toile-making, cutting, fitting and adjustment create the final shape.

02

Specialist métiers

Embroidery, feathers, artificial flowers, pleating, buttons, jewellery, hats and shoes bring specialist workshops into one look. Name who made what whenever records allow.

03

The industry around the garment

Shows, client relations, photography, perfume, boutiques and licensing expanded a house’s influence. Presentation and circulation are part of couture history too.

04

Sources behind this article

External sites open in a new tab as evidence, not as a substitute for this article.

The Met — Haute Couture (opens in a new tab)V&A — The golden age of couture (opens in a new tab)le19M — Savoir-faire (opens in a new tab)